Document Deposit Interest: Guide for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should carefully document receipts and deadlines relating to the deposit, the deposit account and deposit interest. This text explains clearly which bank statements, tenancy agreements, interest statements and correspondence are important, how to collect evidence and check deadlines, and what rights you have under the BGB.^[1] At the end you will find a step-by-step guide, frequently asked questions, and official contacts such as the local court and the Federal Ministry. The information helps to prepare a claim for unpaid interest, secure evidence correctly and — if necessary — assert claims in court. Keep copies electronically and on paper and note dates and recipients for every piece of correspondence. The procedure applies both to a deposit account at the bank and to offsetting in the tenancy; practical examples show how to calculate an interest claim and document compliance with deadlines.

How to document deposit interest

If the deposit is held in a separate deposit account, interest credits and bank statements must be checked. Note credit date, amount and account holder. Legally, §§ 535–580a BGB regulate landlord and tenant obligations in tenancy law and deposits.^[1]

• Secure the deposit account statement with interest credits (document)
• Provide rent payment receipts and the deposit agreement (deposit)
• Collect correspondence, reminders and formal letters (form)
• Note deadlines: repayment date and objection periods (deadline)
• Attach receipts for repairs or deductions that affect repayment (repair)
• If necessary: prepare documents for a claim at the local court (court)

There are official guidelines from the Federal Ministry for drafting termination or claim letters; templates and guidance help to prepare formal letters.^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Who receives the interest from the deposit account?

The interest belongs to the tenant unless otherwise contractually agreed or lawfully used for offsetting.

What deadline applies to claiming interest?

Practically, you should assert claims within two to six months after returning the apartment and document deadlines; general limitation periods apply in legal proceedings.

What to do if the landlord withholds interest?

Collect evidence, demand release in writing and, if necessary, prepare a lawsuit at the local court; bank statements and correspondence are decisive.

How-To

1. Check deadlines and note return and payment dates (deadline).
2. Collect all bank statements, rent payments and written agreements (document).
3. Draft a formal claim letter and send it by registered mail (form).
4. If payment is not forthcoming, file the documents with the local court or seek legal advice (court).

Key Takeaways

• Keep bank statements and correspondence complete and organized.
• Note all relevant deadlines immediately.
• The local court is the first instance for tenancy disputes.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet - BGB (legal foundations for deposits)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection - forms and information
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - case law on tenancy

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet - BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - Entscheidungen zum Mietrecht
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz - Formulare und Informationen